Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) can be grown on almost any moderately well-drained soil type. A good supply of organic matter can increase yield and reduce production problems. Tomatoes and related vegetables, such as potatoes, peppers, and … [Read more...]
Heat and Drought Tolerant Plants
Sandy Feather, extension educator in Allegheny county, has prepared this list of trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials that don't just survive but will thrive in our long, hot summers. Read more: … [Read more...]
Garden Journaling with Phenology Facts
Where do you find good gardening models, resources, and information on how to care for a garden over time? Old-time gardeners relied on the bloom sequence of common and native plants growing in their local regions to let them know it was safe to sow … [Read more...]
Powdery mildew in the flower garden
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects many different plants in the flower garden. Continued: … [Read more...]
Best Plants for Clay Soil
What grows well in clay soil? Dense clay soil is common in yards across the country. This can seem like a challenge at first, but we’re here to help! With some simple amendments and the right plants, you can transform your yard with beautiful plants. … [Read more...]
Managing Human Wildlife Interactions: Snakes
One day, when I was a little girl, I was playing outside; yes, we did that back then! As I came around the corner of our home, I saw a black snake, curled up, enjoying a bit of shade, under an evergreen tree. I stopped dead in my tracks, petrified … [Read more...]
What is a harmful algal bloom?
Harmful algal blooms, or HABs, occur when colonies of algae — simple plants that live in the sea and freshwater — grow out of control and produce toxic or harmful effects on people, fish, shellfish, marine mammals and birds. The human illnesses … [Read more...]
10 Adaptive Gardening Rules To Live By…
Adaptive gardening offers a myriad of ways for gardeners of all ages with a limited range of motion, the wheelchair bound, or anyone wanting to reduce stress on their joints, to identify what works for them in their garden according to their personal … [Read more...]
10 Ways to Save Pollinators
Pollinators are in trouble. These important wildlife move from plant to plant while searching for protein-rich pollen or high-energy nectar to eat. As they go, they are dusted by pollen and move it to the next flower, fertilizing the plant and … [Read more...]
Water and Shelter for Pollinators
All living creatures need water to survive. They use it for: HydratingCleansingModerating body temperatureReproducing If you are not fortunate enough to have a pond or stream near your garden, you can create an adequate water source by … [Read more...]